The Basics
Country: Ireland
Where is it: Ireland is in Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain.
Why do people go here: Ireland’s impressive cliffs, luscious green countryside and Guinness are legendry. The beer, pub scene, and music are equally famous. The country is also considered one of the friendliest in Europe. Dublin is a large, bustling cosmopolitan city with prices to match. The towns that dot the countryside are relaxed, welcoming and ooze Irish charm.
What are the main entry points: It is most common for visitors to arrive in either Dublin or Shannon (outside of Limerick) Airport. Ferry transport from the UK or France is a novel way to arrive in the country, however, rough seas and slow moving ferries are generally not worth your time.
Currency used: Euro
Country Code for Phones: 353
Area codes for Major Cities: Dublin 1
Religion: Roman Catholic 91.6%, Church of Ireland 2.5%, other 5.9%
Population: 4 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Celtic, English
Government: Republic
Languages: English is one official language. The other, Irish (Gaelic), is mostly spoken in some areas on the west coast.
Travel Information
Major Cities: Dublin, Galway, Cork, Limerick
Attractions: Cliffs of Mohr, Dublin, Crystal Producers
Accommodation: Ireland Hostels, Ireland Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Ireland-Tourist Board Baggot St. Bridge PO Box 273 Dublin, 8, Ireland +353-1-602-4000; FAX +353-1-602-4100
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Temple Bar Gourmet Food Market, Iveagh Gardens
Health Issues: No vaccines are required to enter Ireland. Health care is on par with the rest of Europe and the U.S.
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Ireland is notoriously rainy, especially during the late winter and early spring. If you’re heading to the West Coast, take a rain coat year round. You’ll find July and August to be the warmest months, and the most crowded.
Common Phrases: Yes = Chodail, No = Nil, Please = Le do thoil
Specific Events/Holidays: Saint Patrick’s Day, 17 March
Getting Around: Irish roads are very narrow, hiring small cars is recommended. Slow down and go over to the left if you see a large truck coming your way; the road isn’t always wide enough for both of you. Because trains only go to rural areas, buses may be the best way to get out to rural areas.
Good to know: Dublin budget accommodation fills up, especially on the weekend.
Cheapest airport to fly into: There are five airports serving Ireland. These are the Belfast International Airport, Cork Airport, Dublin Airport, Ireland West Airport
and Shannon Airport. Choose the airport that is near your trip destination to obtain cheaper flights.
Need more information?: Check out the Ireland travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
